TalkSPORT reporter Alex Crook has told Give Me Sport that Frank Lampard’s pursuit to lure Anthony Elanga to Everton from Manchester United hinges on Erik ten Hag signing a replacement, most likely in the form of Memphis Depay.
Elanga, 20, has come through the ranks to play 47 times for Manchester United. But he has only started 25 of those 47 games, and he needs game time. Everton are interested, with Lampard keenly aware his side lacks quality out wide.
The Sweden international is a name on their shortlist. But with the club losing Cristiano Ronaldo and needing a striker even before that, the addition of Wout Weghorst hardly affects Elanga’s game time. United still want to replace him.
However, Crook states that United will only allow Elanga to leave Old Trafford on loan – or on a permanent deal this month – if they sign a replacement. Crook states that Depay looks like that man, with his contract expiring in June.
“Everton are keen [on Elanga] but that would depend, I think, on United bringing in a sort of Depay to bolster numbers because, at the moment, he’s still coming on towards the end of games, still playing his part in the team,” Crook said.
Crook: Everton pursuit to lure Elanga to Everton hinges on Depay
Are United really going to bring Depay back to the club? Yes, he is out of contract at Barcelona and yes, he shares the same nationality with United’s manager. But Depay is a striker these days. Depay does not have the speed of a winger.
He is more experienced but slower for that. He would be a good signing, but it seems unlikely that United bring the Dutch star back to Old Trafford. However, it is possible United sign another winger, and that could free up Elanga.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
